These Brussels sprouts with bacon are a tasty side dish that everyone will love! They get that wonderful crispy texture and smoky flavor from the bacon, making veggies much more exciting.
Honestly, cooking Brussels sprouts has never been so fun! I like to pair them with my favorite meals, and they always get gobbled up first. Who knew veggies could be this popular? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Brussels Sprouts: Fresh Brussels sprouts are essential here. They can also be frozen, but fresh will give the best results. If you can’t find them, you could swap with green beans or broccoli, though cooking times will vary.
Bacon: Crunchy bacon adds a rich, smoky flavor. If you want a healthier option, turkey bacon works well. Vegetarian? Try using smoked tempeh or mushrooms for a similar savoriness without the meat.
Olive Oil: This is optional since the bacon fat usually provides enough grease. However, if you prefer some more richness, you can use avocado oil or even a mild vegetable oil instead.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings a lovely aroma. For convenience, you can use garlic powder, but the fresh option is always more flavorful. If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add even more!
Thyme: Fresh thyme leaves can really elevate this dish. If you don’t have fresh, dried thyme is a good substitute—just use less, as dried herbs have a more concentrated flavor.
How Do I Get My Brussels Sprouts Crispy and Golden?
The key to deliciously crispy Brussels sprouts is in the cooking method. Start by cooking them in the bacon fat, which helps them brown nicely. Here are steps to ensure they turn out perfectly:
- Heat your skillet on medium-high. This will help the sprouts brown without steaming.
- Add the halved Brussels sprouts, spreading them out in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan; this allows them to crisp up.
- Stir occasionally to avoid burning but let them sit long enough to caramelize and develop that nice golden color—about 8-10 minutes.
- Add the garlic towards the end to prevent it from burning, which can make it taste bitter.
By following these tips, your Brussels sprouts will turn out perfectly crispy and incredibly tasty! Enjoy making them!
How to Make Brussels Sprouts With Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450 g) Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil (optional, if needed)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and roughly 15 minutes of cooking time, so you can have a delicious side ready in about 25 minutes. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brussels Sprouts:
First, rinse the Brussels sprouts under cold water. Trim off the stems and slice each sprout in half lengthwise. This will help them cook evenly and get crispy!
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat. Keep cooking until it gets crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to take the bacon out of the skillet, and set it aside. Leave the bacon fat in the skillet—it’s full of flavor!
3. Cook the Brussels Sprouts:
Add the halved Brussels sprouts to the skillet with the rendered bacon fat. If there’s not enough fat to coat them, feel free to add a bit of olive oil. Stir them well so they’re nicely coated.
4. Brown the Sprouts:
Cook the Brussels sprouts over medium-high heat while stirring occasionally. Keep an eye on them as they begin to brown and caramelize, which will take about 8-10 minutes. This step is crucial for that delicious flavor!
5. Sauté the Garlic:
Once your sprouts are nicely browned, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn.
6. Combine Everything:
Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and mix it evenly with the Brussels sprouts. Let everything combine for another 2-3 minutes until it’s all heated through.
7. Season and Serve:
Finally, season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh thyme leaves if you’d like a touch of elegance. Serve warm and enjoy the smoky, crispy goodness!
Enjoy your flavorful Brussels sprouts with smoky, crispy bacon!
Can I Use Frozen Brussels Sprouts Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen Brussels sprouts, but they may not get as crispy as fresh ones. If you choose to use frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before cooking to prevent excess moisture from steaming them.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you want to make this dish vegetarian or reduce fat, you can substitute bacon with smoked tempeh, mushrooms, or even a couple of tablespoons of liquid smoke for that smoky flavor without the meat.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Add More Seasoning or Ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative! You can add a splash of balsamic vinegar or some chili flakes for a bit of kick. Other vegetables like onions or bell peppers can also be included for added flavor and texture.